The 10th Duke of Roxburghe Guy Innes-Ker has died at the age of 64 following a lengthy battle with cancer.

He died peacefully at his family's ancestral home Floors Castle, near Kelso in the Scottish Borders, his family has announced.

The 10th Duke was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in December 2009.

In a statement, his family said he fought the illness with courage and will be missed by so many in different spheres.

"We are all deeply saddened that the Duke has lost his battle with an illness he fought with great courage and determination," the family said in a statement.

"He really was a Corinthian figure who was a great sportsman, a passionate fisherman who made a huge contribution to fisheries management on the river Tweed and a successful businessman who modernised and turned Roxburghe Estates into the successful business it is today.

"He derived enormous success and enjoyment from racing and the thoroughbred stud at Floors - including breeding the first double Classic (1000 Guineas) winner Attraction in the early 2000s.

"We know he will be missed by so many in different spheres in particular by those staff and farm tenants on the Roxburghe Estates."

The 10th Duke was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in December 2009 (Image: Roxburghe Estates /SWNS.COM)